Locals are being asked to dig in and make a difference at a community planting day in Te Puke’s Lawrence Oliver Park.

With more than 2000 native plants ready to go in the ground, the Western Bay of Plenty District Council (WBOPDC) is inviting people to be part of this important mahi, on Saturday, July 19, to help create a thriving wetland in the park.

“This isn’t just about native planting – it’s about planting a sense of connection. When the community helps shape a space like this, it becomes something we all take pride in,” said Liesel Carnie, the council’s community outcomes adviser.

“It’s a great way to connect with the environment and each other, so come along, get your hands dirty, and help create something special.”

The restoration project will add to previous wetland planting work at Lawrence Oliver Park. Photo / WBOPDC

The restoration project, at the southern end of the reserve, will see 2775sq m of the park transformed into a treatment wetland to improve water quality, support wildlife, reduce flooding, and add to the park’s recreational and cultural value.

It is a joint initiative with the WBOPDC, which owns the land; the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, which maintains Managh’s Drain bordering the reserve; and the Te Ara Kahikatea Pathway Society, which previously established a 4km public pathway passing around part of Lawrence Oliver Park.

Lawrence Oliver wetland. Photo / BOPRC

Adjacent to the pā site Te Aore – which was a camp for forces during battle at Te Tumu – the area has unique cultural values, with mana whenua providing guidance to ensure those values are acknowledged and upheld.

“Everyone is welcome to come along to the community planting day – we’re looking for as many helping hands as possible,” said Carnie.

“The area is likely to be wet and muddy, so we recommend wearing gumboots or sturdy shoes, and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. If you have gardening gloves or a spade, bring them along – but we’ll have some available to share too.

“We’ll also have some morning tea on hand as a small thank you to everyone who comes out to help.”

Lawrence Oliver Wetland Planting Day site map. Image / WBOPDC

Helpers are asked to bring a drink bottle and spade, and wear gloves, closed footwear and warm waterproof clothing.

Parking will be available along King St and Landscape Rd, but this will be limited, so people may need to park further afield and walk in. There are three open water ponds in the area, so children must be supervised at all times.

Community Planting Day, 10am, Saturday July 19, northern end of Lawrence Oliver Park, Te Puke.